Frequently Asked Questions
What will happen at my first appointment?
You will talk with your therapist about the issues that motivated you to seek therapy and you will be able to ask any questions you might have. Working with you, your therapist will suggest a personalized treatment approach and help you to identify your treatment goals.
How long and how many times a week is a typical session?
Sessions are usually 55 minutes, unless discussed prior. Most clients are seen once a week in the beginning, then, as time goes on, less frequently. The number of sessions depends on what your current needs are.
How long will I be in counseling?
The length of time a client is in counseling depends on the nature of the problem and the goals of the counseling. Some clients have a very specific problem that can be worked through in a set course of counseling. For others, counseling is an on-going learning process and they choose to receive counseling for a longer period.
Is therapy right for me?
Seeking out therapy is an individual choice. There are many reasons why people come to therapy. Sometimes it is to deal with long-standing psychological issues, or problems with anxiety or depression. Other times it is in response to unexpected changes in one’s life such as infertility, postpartum depression, divorce or work transition. Many seek the counseling as they pursue their own personal exploration and growth. Working with a therapist can help provide insight, support, and new strategies for all types of life challenges. These include depression, anxiety, conflict, grief, stress management, body-image issues, and general life transitions. Therapy is right for anyone who is interested in working towards change in their lives.
Do I need individual or marital/couples therapy?
If your reason for seeking therapy is to improve your relationship, then working with a relationship therapist or someone who specializes in couples/marital therapy is recommended. If both parties are willing, joint therapy will be more effective in improving relationship issues.
What if I want couples counseling, but my partner won't come?
Unfortunately, sometimes one partner is not as willing as the other to come in for counseling. However, I often find that it is possible to improve the relationship with just one person involved in counseling and typically the other partner will follow after he/she sees a difference in their relationship.
How much are your Fees and do you take Insurance?
Your fee will depend on the kinds of services you request. Different forms of payment are accepted. Payment is due at the time of your appointment. I do not participate with insurances. I will be happy to provide a bill of service which you can submit to your insurance for out of network benefits.
Do I need to take medications?
As counselors and therapists, we are not legally allowed to prescribe medications. However, based on an assessment of the problems you are facing, it may be advised to consult with a psychiatrist to determine whether medication is warranted.
What does 'confidentiality' mean?
Your visits are confidential and information disclosed in sessions cannot be released without your consent. However, there are certain situations involving abuse, neglect or the intent to harm oneself or others that the law requires us to disclose.